They featured alongside some of the world's best-known brands - among them Spain's Torres, Australia's Penfolds and France's Chateau Margaux - after being selected by a panel of 60 leading international wine experts.

NZ Winegrowers global marketing director Chris Yorke said he had never seen such a strong showing in an international selection.

"We are a producer of premium wines - and what has been recognised is our brands stand up to the likes of Chateau Margaux, Ridge and DRC [Domaine de la Romanee-Conti] in the global market," he said.

"We don't produce $1000 wines, but we also don't produce $5 wines - our market is mainly between the $20 and $50 mark, and we do really well."

Mr Yorke said New Zealand's success on the world wine stage had been gradually building.

Overseas, its wine was renowned for its quality, sustainability and diversity.

"We started winning competitions 25 or 30 years ago with our sauvignon blanc, and we are now getting recognition for our chardonnay, pinot noir and other red wines.